The Controller and Accountant-General’s Department Workers’ Union (CAGDWU) has rejected claims by the Executive Secretary of the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG), Isaac Bampoe Addo, opposing the proposal to grant autonomy to the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department (CAGD).
The union said the recommendation by the Constitutional Review Committee (CRC) followed extensive consultations and a comprehensive assessment of the department’s role in managing Ghana’s financial resources.
In a press statement signed by Interim President Ahmed Muniru Mohammed, Interim General Secretary Becky Ayiku Otuo, Interim Financial Controller Abdul Razak Mohammed, and Interim Organiser Gershon Ntsri, the union said the comments by Mr Bampoe Addo did not reflect the views of staff of the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department.
The statement explained that the department already has a recognised workers’ union capable of protecting the rights and interests of its members. It stressed that any transition of staff from CLOGSAG would not negatively affect their conditions of service.
“The CRC has undertaken wide consultation and a comprehensive assessment of the important role CAGD plays as a manager of Ghana’s financial resources before recommending autonomy for the Department,” the statement said.
The union assured staff that it remains committed to protecting and advancing their welfare and professional interests. It added that it would take all lawful steps to ensure that no policy or action undermines the rights and well-being of its members.
According to the union, granting autonomy to the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department would strengthen fiscal discipline, enhance professional integrity and align Ghana’s public financial management system with international best practices.
The statement also dismissed CLOGSAG’s claim that granting autonomy could create constitutional confusion. Instead, it argued that independence would bring clarity of purpose, improve decision-making and enhance service delivery.
The CAGDWU further rejected concerns about possible weak fiscal coordination. It said autonomy would remove bureaucratic and political bottlenecks and allow for more professional and efficient management of government expenditure.
The union maintained that the department’s independence is a constitutional necessity. It warned that any attempts by individuals or groups to obstruct the process would be resisted.
The union therefore called on Parliament, civil society organisations and the public to support the proposal to grant autonomy to the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department.
It said the reform would improve operational efficiency, safeguard national resources and strengthen fiscal governance in Ghana.
“The independence of CAGD will strengthen fiscal discipline, promote global best practices and reinforce professional integrity in Ghana’s financial administration,” the statement added.
The CAGDWU also urged stakeholders to collaborate to ensure the successful implementation of the Constitutional Review Committee’s recommendation.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com